“It is such an honor for the Oklahoma Historical Society to be able to add this collection to the list of impressive examples of Oklahoma’s musical and cultural talent that will be on display in the OKPOP Museum.” - Dr. Bob Blackburn, executive director of Oklahoma Historical Society

The OKPOP Museum will not be built without the Oklahoma Legislature’s approval of a $42.5 million bond issue to help fund construction of the museum.

It will be located in the Brady Arts District of Tulsa on the southeast corner of Archer Street and Boston Avenue. Bank of Oklahoma has offered to donate the 90,000-square-foot block, contingent on the authorization of the bond issue by the Legislature.

“To not build this museum would be to decline an opportunity for economic growth in our state. Oklahoma has a wealth of artistic talent, and all we need is a venue to showcase that talent. This museum is that venue.” - Senate Minority Leader Sean Burrage, D-Claremore

The museum will be a 75,000-square-foot, four-story building dedicated to the creative spirit of Oklahoma’s people and the influence of Oklahoma artists on popular culture around the world in the fields of music, film, television, theatre, pop art, comic books, literature and humor.

“OKPOP is an opportunity to help our city and our state to continue to grow our economy. It’s estimated that in one year of operation, this museum would create more than 700 jobs, it would generate $3.7 million in total taxes and fees and the total output of the museum would be $61.2 million. A bond issue is the smartest, best approach to finance construction of this museum, and I urge the Oklahoma Legislature to support it.” - Mike Neal, president and CEO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber

Russell was born in Lawton, but started his musical career in Tulsa before moving to Los Angeles. He has performed and collaborated with George Harrison, Ray Charles, Eric Clapton, The Beach Boys, Willie Nelson, Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones and more. His song, “This Masquerade,” won a Grammy for Record of the Year in 1976, and he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

“I normally get arrested in this area. And now the good people of Oklahoma want to build a magnificent museum to honor me and others like me. God is good, amen and amen.” - Leon Russell

With approval of the bond issue, the OKPOP Museum could open as early as 2017.